(b) For purposes of this section, a noncareer appointee includes an SES noncareer or limited appointee, an appointee in a position filled by Schedule C, or an appointee in an Executive Schedule or equivalent position other than a career Executive Schedule or equivalent position.

(c) This restriction does not apply when the career appointee has received a final rating of unsatisfactory under the performance appraisal system established by the agency under subchapter II of chapter 43 of title 5, United States Code, before the appointment of a new agency head or the appointment of the career appointee's most immediate noncareer supervisor who has the authority to remove the career appointee.